At a Turkish Cypriot wedding, the entrance of the bride and groom is one of the most joyful and anticipated moments—made even more vibrant by the powerful sounds of the davul and zurna. As the deep rhythm of the drum (davul) blends with the high, festive notes of the zurna, the air comes alive with excitement. The couple is led into the celebration surrounded by music, clapping, and dancing, creating an electric atmosphere that signals the official start of the festivities. It’s not just an entrance—it’s a celebration of love, family, and tradition, where the community joins in to welcome the newlyweds with open arms and beating hearts.

The wedding reception in a Turkish Cypriot celebration is truly the heart of the festivities—a joyous gathering where food, music, and dancing come together to create unforgettable memories. The atmosphere is lively and warm, filled with the sounds of laughter, clinking glasses, and traditional melodies that invite everyone to join in the celebration. Guests will enjoy traditional Turkish foods, regional dance performances, and joining the bride and groom on the dancefloor until the end of the night.

Dancing is for everyone in Turkish Cypriot culture, from energetic circle dances like the halay (which you can pick up so quickly) to fun couple’s dances, creating a vibrant and inclusive celebration that often lasts until the early hours. The combination of mouthwatering food, heartfelt music, and joyous dancing makes the wedding reception a deeply memorable and cherished part of Turkish Cypriot weddings.

The testi dance is a cherished Turkish Cypriot wedding tradition that has beautifully evolved over time. Traditionally, it was performed by single girls, each taking a turn to dance with the clay pot (testi)—a symbol of abundance, fertility, and good fortune (historically, this dance also let men attending the wedding know which girls were single and potentially looking for a partner).

The pot is usually filled with coins and sweets, representing prosperity and sharing. In modern weddings, the dance has become more inclusive, with both male and female friends and family of the couple joining in. One by one, they dance with the testi, surrounded by music, clapping, and cheers. At the end, the bride and groom take the spotlight for a final dance with the testi, before the bride smashes it on the ground—a symbolic act marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of their new life together. Children at the wedding usually run into the middle at the end of the dance to collect the coins and sweets! It’s a joyful blend of tradition and modern celebration that brings everyone together in the spirit of love and community.